Linqto Founder William Sarris Charged in 'Pre-IPO' $450M Fraud Case

The Linqto fraud case has drawn renewed attention to risks in the private “pre-IPO” investment market after U.S. prosecutors charged William Sarris, the founder of Linqto Inc., with multiple fraud-related offenses. The allegations concern a pricing scheme involving private securities sold through the Linqto platform. 

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, the indictment alleges the scheme operated from 2020 to 2025 and involved over $450 million from more than 13,000 customers.

Alleged Scheme Focused on Securities Pricing

Prosecutors allege that William Sarris manipulated Linqto’s pricing model, created false scarcity and told customers they were purchasing securities at “market” prices while imposing markups that allegedly exceeded 200% in some cases. These claims are allegations contained in the federal indictment.

The indictment further alleges that Linqto later entered bankruptcy in mid-2025, after the company had attracted thousands of investors through its private-company investment platform.

Joseph Endoso Pleads Guilty

Former Linqto executive Joseph Endoso pleaded guilty on August 27, 2026, to securities fraud, broker-dealer fraud and related conspiracy charges. Prosecutors confirmed that he is cooperating with the U.S. government.

Meanwhile, William Sarris, 75, was arrested and charged with securities fraud, broker-dealer fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy. The Department of Justice emphasized that the charges against Sarris are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Investor Warning

Investors should carefully verify a platform’s regulatory status, pricing transparency and investment structure before participating in private-market or pre-IPO investments.

For more verified reports on investment fraud, fake trading platforms and regulatory actions, visit our Complaints section.